Paul pleads with the Ephesians to lead a life worthy of their vocation, which among other things, consists in “preserving the unity of the Spirit”. This unity must be fostered by “bearing with one another charitably, in complete selflessness, gentleness and patience”. Although this may seem difficult, Paul highlights that this is made possible when we realign our focus to our calling through our Baptism. He mentions the word “one” seven times in a sentence to lay stress on the unifying effect of Baptism – one Body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one Faith, one Baptism and one God and Father!

Jesus points out that just as we anticipate the change in season by recognising the signs in nature and make adjustments accordingly, so too, must we deal with others, by recognising the unifying Spirit of our Baptism within us.